New scam hits online banking
2008-05-06 12:30
Johannesburg - Internet banking fraudsters have a new ploy that could catch bank clients off-guard.
Absa clients were receiving e-mails requesting them to provide their banking details.
A previous ploy was to request clients to provide information to protect them from internet scams.
Absa clients received emails in which they were asked to verify their complete banking details in order to use a new and safer service.
Used Absa logo and looked realistic
According to the message it was essential for all clients to undergo the verification process as their accounts would be closed if they did not comply.
The message used the well-known Absa logo and looked realistic.
An Absa spokesperson emphasised that the bank never issued requests via e-mail, especially not for banking details to be provided or updated.
Despite repeated warnings by the bank there were still clients who were not cautious when it came to banking.
Phishing scams
Online scams known as "phising" happen when fraudsters gained access to a bank account when the "Update Online Banking" facility was used.
According to the spokesperson the new ploy surfaced recently. Comprehensive warnings not to respond to the e-mail appeared on the Absa website.
Absa clients were warned to be very wary of a website address that was long and contained the '@' sign.
Absa acknowledged that the fake messages can look very authentic. This included the methods that were used to verify transactions, as well as information about the group's privacy policy that corresponded with the necessary requirements for internet banking.
Clients could be easily fooled
Clients could thus easily be fooled into thinking that the scam was legitimate.
Absa requested that clients change their log-on details, such as their PIN (personal identification number) and password, as soon as they received a suspicious message.
For more information contact Absa's toll-free service at 08600 08600. - Sake
- Sake